MD Senate Passes Back Up Health Insurance Measure

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) - The Maryland Senate has passed a measure to provide health insurance for people who tried to enroll online in the state's health exchange, but couldn't due to computer problems.

The Senate voted 38-8 for the emergency measure Tuesday.

The emergency measure would enable people to enroll in an already existing state insurance pool. Supporters say it's a backup plan. They hope people who unsuccessfully tried to get coverage before a Jan. 1 deadline will sign up with participating exchange insurers, who extended a signup deadline to 5 p.m. Tuesday.

Opponents have criticized a lack of information about past and continuing problems with the exchange. They contend too many questions remain about costs to move forward with the emergency bill.